In the last century, history has painted illustrious stories about mules and the Grand Canyon, and surprisingly, according to John Berry, livery manager for Xanterra’s South Rim mule operation, not a whole lot has changed. “That’s what I really like about my job,” said Berry. “Living in this high-tech, fast-paced society, I can ride a mule down to Phantom Ranch and feel like I’m stepping back 100 years in time.” His office, which is located inside the Mule Barn on the South Rim of the Grand Canyon, reflects the year it was built: 1907. Berry says the best part of his job is being in the outdoors and taking riders down to Phantom Ranch. “It’s such a wonderful experience and people are always amazed.” Along with overseeing the daily Mule Rides into the South Rim of the Grand Canyon to Phantom Ranch and along the rim (Canyon Vista Rim Rides), Berry manages a staff of 23 wranglers and about 150 mules to get packs and riders in and out of the canyon. He’s also a farrier (person who shoes horses and mules), and repairs trails damaged by heavy rainstorms. Berry is very concerned about his customers and their experiences.